(This article was written by Lisa Campos and appeared in the February 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)
Valentine’s Day, which falls on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, is a day when couples celebrate their love. Most share a nice meal, exchange gifts, or have a romantic evening at home. If you are looking for some new and different ways to celebrate, check out my list of things to do this Valentine’s Day (although I have been single for many years, I have done most of these things with my daughter or friends):
Smash Some Stuff
Out-RAGE-Us, The Original STX Rage Room, offers two different setups to relieve your stress: breaking things or splattering paint. Either way, you’re sure to leave with smiles on your faces after releasing some endorphins. Contact them at 802 E. Harrison Ave., 956-434-8005, to book a date.
Create a Work of Art
If you’re feeling creative, you and your partner can paint together and end up with something beautiful to hang on your wall. We have a few options in Harlingen for painting:
Artsycolor Splash (712 N. 77 Sunshine Strip, Suite 5, 956-778-8292) offers step-by-step painting classes at their studio. You must register in advance.
Yes, You Can Paint with Becca (956-518-0890) offers pop up instructor-led painting classes at local bars such as Sir’s Martini Lounge or The 83 Winery. You must register in advance.
Angel’s Art Box (inside Harlingen Bazaar, 112 W. Jackson) provides painting kits that you can take home, or you can stay and paint at their studio either independently or with guidance. No appointment is needed.
Make a Gourmet Meal
Laurel Park Bistro offers culinary classes to small groups. Although I have not yet taken a class myself, I have seen them teach classes on how to make Beef Wellington, French macarons, and croissants. Even if you’re already a good cook, classically trained Chef Diego Benitez will take your skills to the next level. Plus, you and your date will get to enjoy the gourmet meal you created together, in a small, intimate setting. Contact them at 956-893-0121 to ask about their next class.
Get a Limo Ride and Listen to Live Music
Feel like a VIP when you arrive at Jackson Street Cork N Craft in a limo! They have recently started offering complimentary limo rides to their wine bar. They will pick you up and drop you off after an evening of live music and drinks in downtown Harlingen. Call 956-357-2957 to reserve a ride.
Pet and Pose with Alpacas
One of our favorite things to do in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), just a 40-minute drive from Harlingen, in Monte Alto, is to take a tour at the Alpaquita Ranch. My daughter and I have gone multiple times, and it just seems to get better each time. Not only do you get to walk, pet, and pose with your own alpaca, they now have a wine and beer bar, as well as rental cabins so you can stay at the alpaca farm overnight, making it a memorable Valentine’s Day adventure. Book your tour at www.alpaquitaranch.com.